Copyright of fashion is legally not possible. Consequently, “borrowing” from other cultures is strongly encouraged and common practice among mainstream designers. What are the implications of “borrowing” or “appreciating” the design of an oppressed community? Who benefits and profits?
On the flip side, art can be legally copyrighted and many would consider Indigenous fashion as a utilitarian and traditional form of art, and therefore, Indigenous fashion and culture should be copyrighted.
This discussion looks at the ethics, integrity and protocol for creating or wearing Indigenous fashion.
Moderator
Riley Kucheran
Riley Kucheran is an Indigenous fashion researcher who supports a global community of Indigenous makers who are leading design resurgence.…
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